How to Manage Morning Sickness at Home

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Surrogacy is a beautiful journey, but morning sickness can make parts of it challenging. Surrogate mothers often look for reliable methods to ease nausea and discomfort, especially during the early stages. Shared Conception wanted to provide a few effective, easy-to-follow tips to manage morning sickness at home.

Stay Hydrated the Right Way

Drinking plenty of fluids is essential, but large amounts at once can be overwhelming. Try sipping fluids slowly throughout the day to avoid triggering nausea. Aim for about 6-8 cups daily, preferably caffeine-free. Great choices include herbal teas, smoothies, almond milk, and even certain carbonated drinks, which can sometimes settle the stomach.

Embrace Ginger

Ginger is a trusted, natural remedy known for its anti-nausea properties. Incorporating real ginger into your routine can significantly alleviate symptoms:

  • Ginger tea or authentic ginger ale
  • Ginger lollipops or ginger candies
  • Fresh ginger in smoothies or teas

Choose Bland, Easy-to-Digest Foods

Foods that are bland, carbohydrate-rich, and low in fat can ease morning sickness. Favorites include bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, crackers, pasta, and broth. Also, consider protein-rich options like peanut butter, chicken, or beans. It’s best to avoid spicy, fatty, or greasy foods.

Eat Frequently and in Smaller Portions

Instead of three large meals, try smaller, frequent snacks throughout the day. This steady intake helps keep nausea at bay and avoids overwhelming your digestive system.

Choose Cold Meals

Sometimes, the smell of hot foods can trigger nausea. Opting for cold meals or snacks can reduce exposure to these aromas, making eating a more pleasant experience.

Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables

Consuming fruits and vegetables high in water content can be refreshing and soothing for your stomach. Try watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries, and peaches to help you stay hydrated and ease nausea.

The Power of Lemons

Citrus fruits, especially lemons, can greatly reduce feelings of nausea:

  • Sniff lemon slices or essential lemon oils (safe for inhaling, not ingesting)
  • Squeeze fresh lemon into your water
  • Add lemon or orange zest to yogurt or ice cream
  • Suck on sour lemon candies or enjoy a fragrant lemon tea

Vitamin B6-Rich Foods

Incorporate foods high in vitamin B6, such as salmon and avocados, as they are known to alleviate nausea effectively.

Peppermint

Peppermint, like ginger, can naturally reduce nausea:

  • Drink peppermint tea
  • Add mint syrup to sparkling water
  • Sprinkle mint leaves on food
  • Enjoy peppermint candies or gum

Important note: Avoid ingesting peppermint essential oil as it may exacerbate acid reflux.

Consider Acupressure

Acupressure wristbands, readily available at most pharmacies, provide relief for many women experiencing morning sickness. They’re a simple, drug-free method worth trying.

Get Plenty of Rest

Never underestimate the healing power of sleep. Allow yourself plenty of rest, as exhaustion can intensify nausea.

Care for Your Teeth

Lastly, protect your dental health. Vomiting exposes your teeth to stomach acids, which can damage enamel. Always rinse your mouth afterward with water mixed with a teaspoon of baking soda to neutralize acids and preserve your oral health.

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If you have any questions or concerns about a product made for nausea, please contact your physician. The Shared Conception team is also here to help you throughout your entire surrogacy journey. You can contact us at https://sharedconception.com/contact or call us at (713) 622-1144.

Health and Wellness Tips for Surrogates

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Becoming a surrogate is a life-changing commitment, but it also comes with physical and emotional challenges. Prioritizing your health and well-being throughout the journey is essential for both you and the baby you are carrying. By following best practices for nutrition, self-care, stress management, and emotional support, you can maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Prioritizing Physical Health

Your body is doing important work, so taking care of your physical health should be a top priority.

  • Follow a Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods ensures the baby receives essential vitamins and minerals. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fresh fruits, and vegetables while staying hydrated.
  • Engage in Safe Exercise: Gentle activities like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can help with circulation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new fitness routine.
  • Get Regular Prenatal Care: Frequent check-ups with your doctor ensure both you and the baby are progressing healthily. Keep up with necessary screenings and discuss any concerns with your medical team.
  • Rest and Sleep Well: Pregnancy can be exhausting, so listen to your body and prioritize rest. Establish a bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleeping environment to promote quality sleep.

Managing Stress and Mental Well-being

Implementing stress management techniques can help you navigate the journey with ease.

  • Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and prenatal massages can help reduce anxiety and tension.
  • Set Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care: Take time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature.
  • Stay Connected with Loved Ones: Whether it’s a supportive partner, close friends, or family, having a strong support system can make a world of difference.

Taking care of your physical and mental health as a surrogate is essential for a positive experience. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and seeking support when needed, you can ensure that both you and the baby thrive throughout the pregnancy. Remember, your well-being matters, and prioritizing self-care will help make your surrogacy journey as fulfilling as possible.

Checklist for Intended Parents

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The journey to parenthood through surrogacy is filled with excitement, anticipation, and detailed planning. As the due date approaches, intended parents must take necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition into

parenthood. Here’s a checklist to help prepare for your baby’s arrival:

  1. Finalize Legal Paperwork

Ensure that all legal documentation is completed. Work closely with your attorney to confirm that everything is in place.

  1. Plan for Hospital Logistics

Coordinate with the hospital staff and your surrogacy agency to confirm delivery arrangements. Discuss hospital policies regarding intended parents in the delivery room and post-birth bonding. Have a copy of all legal documents on hand in case hospital personnel require verification.

  1. Pack a Hospital Bag

Since you may spend a couple of days at the hospital, pack essentials such as:

  • Clothing and blankets for the baby
  • Bottles and formula (if not breastfeeding)
  • Personal care items
  • Legal documents and insurance information
  • A gift or token of appreciation for your surrogate (optional but thoughtful)
  1. Secure Post-Birth Care for the Baby

Arrange for a pediatrician and schedule your baby’s first appointment. If necessary, discuss insurance coverage with your provider to ensure a smooth transition of medical care.

  1. Prepare Your Home

Set up the nursery, purchase baby essentials, and ensure a safe environment for your newborn. Items to check off include a crib, diapers, feeding supplies, and a car seat installed correctly before leaving the hospital.

  1. Discuss Birth Plans with Your Surrogate

Have an open conversation with your surrogate about her birth preferences, comfort level, and expectations for labor and delivery. Clear communication fosters a positive experience for everyone involved.

  1. Emotionally Prepare for Parenthood

The moment you’ve been waiting for is almost here! Take time to reflect, bond with your partner, and prepare for the emotional transition into parenthood. Consider joining a support group for intended parents to connect with others who share similar experiences.

  1. Plan for Travel (If Necessary)

If your surrogate is in another state, arrange travel plans well in advance. Have flexible accommodations and ensure your schedule allows you to arrive before the due date.

  1. Arrange for Birth Certificate & Legal Filings

Your surrogacy attorney will guide you through the necessary procedures to obtain the birth certificate and any other legal steps to finalize your parental rights.

  1. Celebrate & Express Gratitude

Surrogacy is a journey that involves many people—your surrogate, medical professionals, legal advisors, and support systems. Take a moment to appreciate the collective effort that helped bring your child into the world.

If you ever have any questions during the surrogacy process, the team here at Shared Conception is always available to you. We are here to make the entire process as easy as possible for everyone involved. You can contact us by calling us at (713) 622-1144 or visit https://sharedconception.com/contact.

The Psychological State of Surrogate Mothers

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Surrogacy is a profound journey that intertwines the lives of intended parents and surrogate mothers, with the latter playing a pivotal role in bringing new life into the world. Understanding the psychological experiences of surrogate mothers is essential for ensuring a supportive and positive surrogacy process.

Emotional Preparedness and Detachment

Research indicates that surrogate mothers often engage in intentional emotional detachment during pregnancy to facilitate the process of relinquishing the child to the intended parents after birth. This conscious effort helps surrogates maintain clarity about their role and fosters a healthy transition post-delivery. A study by the Family and Child Psychology Research Centre at City University, London, found that surrogate mothers rarely had difficulty relinquishing rights to the surrogate child, and intended mothers exhibited greater warmth toward the child than mothers who conceived naturally.

Satisfaction and Empowerment

The majority of surrogate mothers report high levels of satisfaction and a sense of empowerment from their surrogacy experience. Contributing to the creation of a family brings profound fulfillment. However, unmet expectations, such as a lack of closeness with the intended parents or feeling undervalued, can lead to dissatisfaction. Therefore, clear communication and mutual respect are vital components of a successful surrogacy partnership.

Psychological Support and Counseling

While many surrogates navigate the process without significant emotional distress, access to psychological support is crucial. Some surrogates may experience emotional challenges, and the availability of counseling services can provide essential support during and after the pregnancy. Shared Conception emphasizes the importance of offering therapy and emotional support throughout the surrogacy journey to address any potential psychological concerns.

Impact on Surrogates’ Families

Concerns about the effect of surrogacy on the surrogate’s own children are common. A 2011 study from the Centre for Family Research at the University of Cambridge found that surrogacy does not have a negative impact on the surrogate’s own children.

Understanding the psychological landscape of surrogate mothers is essential for all parties involved in the surrogacy process. By fostering open communication, providing robust emotional support, and ensuring mutual respect, the surrogacy journey can be a positive and empowering experience for surrogate mothers, intended parents, and the families they help create.

Shared Conception is a transparent surrogacy agency that will be compassionately straightforward with you, and everyone else involved, as we help make your familial dreams come true!

Understanding the Embryo Transfer Process in Surrogacy

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The embryo transfer process is a crucial step in a surrogacy journey, requiring medical precision and careful coordination to support a successful pregnancy.

In most cases, frozen embryo transfers (FET) are used, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling and optimizing the surrogate’s uterine environment. To prepare, the surrogate follows a personalized medication protocol to thicken the uterine lining and create the best possible conditions for implantation. Once the surrogate’s body is ready, the embryo transfer is scheduled. This procedure involves inserting a thin catheter through the cervix into the uterus. The embryo is carefully placed through the catheter into the uterine lining, where implantation occurs. The process is typically painless, requires no anesthesia, and is performed in an outpatient setting.

After the embryo transfer, surrogates are typically encouraged to take it easy. While complete bed rest is rarely necessary, relaxing during this time can be helpful. Each fertility clinic has its own recommendations, so it’s important to follow their specific instructions, which may range from a few hours to up to 72 hours of rest. About  10 to 14 days later, the surrogate will undergo a pregnancy test at the clinic to confirm if the transfer was successful.

During the first 12 weeks, the surrogate will have routine blood tests and ultrasounds to track the pregnancy’s progress. The intended parents are typically kept informed every step of the way, strengthening their connection to the pregnancy and ensuring peace of mind.

While each IVF clinic may have slightly different procedures, these steps remain consistent in most surrogacy journeys. If you have any questions about the process, Shared Conception is here to guide you with expert support and personalized care every step of the way. Call us at (713) 622-1144 or visit https://sharedconception.com/contact.

The Power of Knowledge in Surrogacy

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When it comes to surrogacy, knowledge truly is the foundation for success.

One of the most critical aspects of a positive surrogacy experience is open, honest, and transparent communication between all parties—the surrogate, the intended parents, and the surrogacy agency. Establishing a solid relationship built on trust and understanding ensures that everyone involved feels comfortable with the process and the life-changing outcome: the arrival of a much-anticipated child.

Surrogacy offers an incredible opportunity for those who cannot carry a child to experience parenthood. Intended parents and surrogates enter this journey as informed adults, fully aware of their roles and responsibilities. However, many new intended parents and surrogates quickly realize just how much they don’t know at the outset. That’s why education and preparation are key.

Most surrogacy arrangements, especially when facilitated by reputable and compassionate agencies, lead to joyful, life-changing results. A knowledgeable agency helps bring together intended parents and surrogates who share common goals, ensuring a well-structured and emotionally fulfilling journey for everyone.

For Intended Parents:

  • Take the time to research surrogacy laws, processes, and agencies.
  • Ask detailed questions about medical, legal, and financial aspects.
  • Seek referrals from past surrogates or intended parents.
  • Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to seek more information.

For Surrogates:

  • Ensure you fully understand what’s expected of you before signing a contract with the intended parents.
  • Verify that all compensation and medical expenses are securely placed in an escrow account.
  • Work with an agency and attorney to protect your rights and well-being throughout the process.

Surrogacy is a journey of hope, trust, and commitment. By prioritizing education, communication, and expert guidance, intended parents and surrogates can create a positive and fulfilling experience—one that leads to the beautiful gift of life and the creation of a loving family.

Making families is an honor and a privilege for many of us who have been touched by surrogacy. Our surrogacy agency, Shared Conception, is available to help you, the intended parents and you, the surrogate, mold a viable and successful relationship all aimed at the direct goal of building amazing families.  Reach out to us via https://sharedconception.com/contact and we will be in touch as soon as possible!

Key Considerations for Women Thinking About Becoming a Surrogate

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Surrogacy is a deeply rewarding journey that allows women to give the priceless gift of parenthood to those unable to conceive on their own. However, before making the decision to become a surrogate mother, it is essential to understand what to expect beyond the myths and common misconceptions. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, here are three crucial aspects to keep in mind.

  1. A Surrogate Pregnancy Differs from a Personal One

Unlike carrying your own child, a surrogate pregnancy involves a unique dynamic. Gestational surrogacy means you are carrying a baby that is not biologically related to you, which changes both the medical and emotional aspects of pregnancy.

One significant difference is that medical decisions are not solely in your hands. While you are the one physically carrying the child, the intended parents—along with medical professionals and the surrogacy agency—play a key role in decision-making. From prenatal tests to delivery plans, choices may be guided by the needs and preferences of the intended parents. This shift in autonomy requires careful consideration and a willingness to collaborate throughout the journey.

  1. Surrogacy Extends Beyond Pregnancy and Birth

Becoming a surrogate mother is a long-term commitment that involves extensive preparation before conception and responsibilities that may continue beyond delivery.

Prior to pregnancy, potential surrogates undergo medical screenings, psychological evaluations, and legal agreements. Some requirements may include lifestyle restrictions such as abstaining from certain medications or sexual activity to ensure a healthy implantation process.

After the baby is born, many surrogates continue to play a role, whether through breast milk donation, postpartum check-ins, or maintaining a connection with the intended parents. Understanding these additional aspects can help set realistic expectations for the entire surrogacy experience.

  1. Your Privacy and Social Interactions Will Change

Pregnancy is highly visible, and being a surrogate often invites curiosity and unsolicited opinions from others. Friends, co-workers, and even strangers may have questions or misunderstandings about surrogacy. While supportive family and friends can help navigate these conversations, being prepared to educate and set boundaries is essential.

Additionally, sharing personal medical information with the intended parents and healthcare providers means a shift in privacy. Some surrogates find this aspect challenging, but open communication with the surrogacy agency and intended parents can help create a comfortable and respectful relationship.

Is Becoming a Surrogate Mother Right for You?

If you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate, take the time to understand every facet of the journey, from the medical process to the emotional and social implications. A well-informed decision ensures that your experience will be as fulfilling and meaningful as possible. The team at Shared Conception is here to help answer any questions you may have and to help you get started. If you are ready to become a surrogate mother, please visit https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream today.

 

Medications Commonly Used During Surrogacy

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Maintaining a healthy pregnancy is essential for both the surrogate and the baby. In surrogacy, specific medications play a crucial role in preparing the body for pregnancy and ensuring a successful embryo implantation. Understanding these medications can help surrogates feel more informed and confident in their journey. Below is an overview of commonly prescribed medications that surrogates may take before and during pregnancy. However, every individual is unique, and it is important to consult with a medical professional about your specific treatment plan.

Pre-cycle and Early Pregnancy Medications

  • Doxycycline – This antibiotic is prescribed to the surrogate before the embryo transfer. It helps eliminate any potential low-grade pelvic or prostatic infections that could interfere with implantation.
  • Lupron (Leuprolide Acetate) – This injectable medication is used to suppress natural ovulation and regulate hormone levels, preventing the release of eggs during the surrogacy cycle.

Medications to Support Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy

  • Low-Dose Aspirin (81-83mg) – Aspirin is often recommended to improve blood flow to the uterus and support embryo implantation. It is usually taken until around the 12th week of pregnancy.
  • Estrogen Patches – These skin patches release estrogen, a hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining early pregnancy. The patches are applied to the abdomen, allowing estrogen to be absorbed through the skin.
  • Progesterone (Prometrium, Endometrin) – Progesterone is essential for preparing the uterine lining for embryo implantation and sustaining early pregnancy. It can be administered in the form of injections, vaginal suppositories, or oral pills.
  • Tetracycline – This broad-spectrum antibiotic is taken a few days before the embryo transfer to help prevent infections.
  • Medrol (Methylprednisolone) – A low-dose steroid taken orally to suppress immune responses that might interfere with embryo implantation.

While these medications are commonly used in surrogacy, each surrogate’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific medical needs, and each doctor has their own medication protocol. Consulting with a fertility specialist ensures that the prescribed medications are appropriate and that any potential side effects are carefully managed.

If you have questions about medications or the surrogacy process in general, we encourage you to reach out to our team at Shared Conception. You can call us at 713-622-1144 or visit us at https://sharedconception.com/surrogates.

 

Should Intended Parents Ask Their Surrogate to Make Lifestyle Changes?

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When starting the surrogacy journey, intended parents naturally want the best for their baby. They also hope to build a strong and trusting relationship with their surrogate. However, requesting lifestyle changes from a surrogate can be a sensitive topic. Understanding the boundaries and considerations involved is crucial to maintaining a healthy and respectful dynamic.

Establishing Expectations Through Surrogacy Matching

During the initial stages of the surrogacy process, intended parents outline their goals and preferences. This includes determining the factors that are most important when selecting a surrogate.

In surrogacy, requirements refer to non-negotiable conditions that must be met for a successful match, while preferences are desirable but not essential qualities. By clearly communicating these expectations early on, intended parents increase the chances of finding a surrogate mother who aligns with their values. It’s also important to recognize that highly specific or restrictive requests may lead to longer matching times or require flexibility.

Once an intended parent profile is presented to a potential surrogate, she has the opportunity to review any lifestyle preferences mentioned. If she does not already meet the requests but is open to adjustments, discussions can take place before formal agreements are finalized.

Reasonable Lifestyle Requests

The gestational carrier agreement covers the primary health and safety aspects of pregnancy, including abstaining from alcohol and drugs and following medical recommendations. It may also include travel restrictions to ensure proper legal procedures for establishing parentage.

Beyond these standard agreements, some intended parents may request additional lifestyle modifications. Common examples include:

  • Eating organic or specific dietary choices
  • Avoiding certain cosmetic treatments (e.g., hair dye, chemical exposure)
  • Limiting high-impact physical activities

Cleaning with more natural cleaning products

  • Participating in prenatal yoga or meditation

If a surrogate agrees to such requests, intended parents may need to provide financial compensation for any additional costs incurred. However, it’s essential to approach these discussions with sensitivity and respect for the surrogate’s autonomy.

Trust and Comfort in the Surrogacy Process

While intended parents may feel a desire to maintain control over every aspect of the pregnancy, surrogacy requires a level of trust in the surrogate’s judgment. Over-monitoring or enforcing strict lifestyle changes may create tension and stress, which can be detrimental to the pregnancy and the overall surrogacy experience.

Surrogates are thoroughly screened before being matched, ensuring they are responsible and committed to the well-being of the child they carry. Open and respectful communication fosters a positive relationship rather than one rooted in control.

Requests Made After Matching

If an intended parent wishes to request a major lifestyle change after a match has been established, they should consult with their surrogacy agency before approaching the surrogate. At this stage, introducing new conditions may cause frustration or concern, especially if they significantly impact the surrogate’s daily life.

Before making such a request, intended parents should consider:

  • How difficult will the change be to implement?
  • How long will the adjustment be required?
  • Will financial assistance be necessary to support the change?
  • Could this request cause unnecessary stress for the surrogate?
  • Is this request essential, or is flexibility an option?

Requests During Pregnancy

If a lifestyle change was not discussed during the matching process and is not included in the contract, it is generally not advisable to request major modifications once the pregnancy is underway. Surrogates may feel micromanaged, leading to resentment or strained communication. Unless there is a direct health or safety concern, allowing the surrogate to navigate the pregnancy as agreed upon in the contract is the best approach.

The Role of the Surrogacy Agency

Surrogacy agencies play a vital role in facilitating discussions between intended parents and surrogates. They can help set realistic expectations, mediate concerns, and ensure that both parties feel supported. Whether considering lifestyle preferences before matching or facing unexpected concerns during pregnancy, seeking agency guidance can help maintain a smooth and positive surrogacy journey.

Ultimately, the key to a successful surrogacy experience lies in trust, open communication, and mutual respect. By establishing expectations early on and focusing on the surrogate’s well-being, intended parents can foster a supportive environment that benefits everyone involved—including the baby. If you are interested in learning more about your surrogacy options, contact Shared Conception today by calling 713-622-1144 or visit our website at: https://sharedconception.com/parents.

Nesting as a Surrogate: Embracing the Instinct

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Nesting is a natural phenomenon among pregnant mothers, from cats preparing a cozy space for their kittens to birds meticulously building their nests. For human moms-to-be, it often involves cleaning, organizing, and preparing for the arrival of a new baby. But what about surrogates? Do they experience the same nesting instincts, even though the baby isn’t theirs to keep?

The answer is a resounding yes! Most surrogates report experiencing the nesting instinct just as intensely as any other pregnant woman. This makes sense when you think about it—your body doesn’t differentiate between carrying your own child and carrying one for someone else. It only knows that it’s preparing for the arrival of a baby, and that triggers the instinct to nest.

Understanding the Surrogate Nesting Instinct

Nesting can manifest in various ways, from decluttering and deep cleaning to tackling DIY projects and organizing forgotten corners of the home. Many surrogates find themselves swept up in a burst of energy, determined to create order and comfort. This instinct isn’t just about preparing a physical space; it’s a way for the body and mind to feel ready for childbirth.

For surrogates, nesting can feel deeply satisfying. Since there’s no nursery to set up, the energy often goes into making their home a better place for their own family. Closets get organized, pantries get restocked, and those long-ignored to-do lists finally get checked off.

Making the Most of the Nesting Phase

If you find yourself swept up in the nesting instinct during your surrogate pregnancy, embrace it! It’s a unique part of the journey, and it provides an opportunity to focus on your own home and family. Whether it’s organizing long-forgotten spaces or deep cleaning areas that need attention, nesting is a way to channel your energy productively.

While not every surrogate experiences nesting, those who do often find it to be a rewarding and memorable part of their journey. It’s yet another way that carrying a baby for someone else brings unexpected joys and unique experiences.

So, if the nesting bug bites, lean into it. Enjoy the burst of energy and the satisfaction of preparing your space, even if the baby you’re nurturing will soon be going home to another family. After all, every step of surrogacy is part of an extraordinary journey—and nesting is no exception.

Contact us at Shared Conception with any questions you may have about the surrogate journey. You can call us at 713-622-1144 or visit https://sharedconception.com/contact. If you are not yet a surrogate mother but are interested, visit our page: https://deliveradream.com, and we will contact you.